Love always wins: Adoption order awarded to first Caraga LGBTQIA+ parent
By Niña Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Never in his wildest dreams did Cyrian P. Zafra, a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, imagine becoming a parent. Yet fate had a different plan—one that led him to embrace a child not of his own flesh and blood, but one he has come to love with his whole being. His story proves that parenthood knows no gender.
With the guidance of a social worker from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Surigao del Sur, Zafra began his journey as a licensed foster parent in 2021.
On May 11, 2022, his life changed forever. A 15-day-old infant was entrusted to his care after being surrendered by the child’s mother. “When I got the call from the social worker asking if I could foster the newborn, I felt a mix of emotions. I was happy and excited to finally experience having a child of my own. But at the same time, I was anxious and nervous—wondering if I could truly fulfill the responsibilities of being a parent,” he said.
Zafra faced doubts and prejudices from those around him. Some questioned his capacity to raise a child because of his lifestyle, while others saw his gender identity as a hindrance. But the love he felt for the child silenced all judgment. Though his life had once been uncertain, his foster daughter gave him meaning and direction.
“Bilang isang miyembro ng LGBTQIA+, mahirap para sa atin na makahanap ng tunay na pamilya… Nang dumating sa buhay ko ang aking anak, nagbago ang pananaw ko. Nakita ko ang silbi at purpose ko sa buhay (As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, it is difficult for us to find a true family… When my child came into my life, my perspective changed. I discovered my worth and purpose in life),” he shared tearfully.
From a carefree, happy-go-lucky individual, Zafra’s family witnessed his transformation into a responsible, devoted parent. “The moment I laid eyes on her, it was love at first sight. I instantly knew I wanted to be this child’s parent for as long as I could. But I also told myself—I want to do it the right way,” he said.
With the assistance of the Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) Caraga, Zafra filed for adoption on June 11, 2025. After months of compliance and waiting, his petition was finalized and transmitted to the National Authority for Child Care (NACC). On November 3, 2025, his long-awaited adoption order was approved, followed by the issuance of a certificate of finality on December 11, 2025—sealing his bond with his daughter, Airam.
On January 14, 2026, RACCO Caraga celebrated with the Zafra family as they rang the ceremonial ‘bell of joy’ at the regional office. Zafra is now recognized as the first-ever member of the LGBTQIA+ community in Caraga to become an adoptive parent. He hopes his story will inspire others in the community to embrace the same path of love and selflessness.
“To my fellow LGBTQIA+ members, I encourage you to consider adoption. Through it, you will experience genuine love and the deeper meaning of life. Whatever happens, there will always be someone who will give you unconditional love—something even a spouse or partner cannot always provide. And no matter what, they will never leave us,” he encouraged.
He added, “Let us help children who have no parents. Let us give them a home and a family filled with love. Spread love. Love and be loved.”
Cyrian and Airam’s story is nothing short of destiny. Though not bound by blood, their bond is a testament to unconditional love. May this landmark adoption inspire more members of the LGBTQIA+ community to embrace parenthood and redefine family with courage, compassion, and love. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)
